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Interplay between static and dynamic disorder: Contrasting effects on dark state population inside a cavity
Strong light–matter interactions between molecules and quantized electromagnetic fields inside an optical cavity open up novel possibilities, although inevitably influenced by disorder, an inherent attribute of realistic molecular systems. Here, we explore the steady-state optical response of molecular emitters within a lossy cavity, with a focus on the combined effects of static and dynamic disorders, as frequently observed in solution-phase experiments. By analyzing the transmission spectra, molecular energy change, and dark state population, we uncover the contrasting effects of static and dynamic disorders on the dark state population and its interplay with polariton states. We find that the Rabi splitting exhibits an inversion with increasing disorder strength, where the maximum splitting is determined by the interplay of static and dynamic disorders. Furthermore, we identify a dark state-induced polariton linewidth narrowing, revealing a mechanism distinct from motional narrowing induced by frequency fluctuations. These mechanistic insights highlight the critical role of dark states, establishing a foundation for future developments in the fields of polariton chemistry and strong coupling spectroscopy.
Downward accountability mechanism effectiveness by non-governmental organizations in low- and middle-income countries: A qualitative systematic review
Background Downward accountability, defined as being answerable to beneficiaries for actions and giving affected populations influence in aid processes, remains unstandardized and underinvested across the humanitarian sector. Currently, numerous accountability mechanisms are being utilized by humanitarian non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). However, the different mechanisms have varying degrees of effectiveness in providing true accountability to affected populations due to significant barriers or strengths in implementation. Objective To conduct a qualitative systematic review investigating the various downward accountability mechanisms employed by non-governmental organizations in LMICs, and to assess the effectiveness of these mechanisms in delivering downward accountability for populations in low-resource settings. Results We searched 10 databases, including PubMed, Medline, Embase, Ovid, Web of Science, Global Health, EBSCO SocINDEX, ABI/INFORM, ALNAP, and Sociological Abstracts from 2008–2023. Grey literature was searched on Google Scholar. To capture any additional articles, the search was updated in November 2024. Our search produced 1521 articles. After applying our exclusion criteria and screening, 38 articles comprised our final dataset. Each article reported on the effectiveness of five downward accountability mechanisms, including participation, ownership, transparency, program auditing, and social auditing. Associated barriers to accountability included implementation, power asymmetry, and fragmentation within the humanitarian sector. Conclusions There are significant gaps in research on the effectiveness of downward accountability mechanisms amongst humanitarian NGOs in LMICs. This research deficit adversely affects the sustainability of local development initiatives and, on a broader scale, undermines overall organizational effectiveness. Implementing balanced accountability mechanisms that promote equality in power dynamics is pivotal to achieving meaningful outcomes for affected populations.
Hazardous waste management practices among healthcare workers in Gondar City, Ethiopia
Landau–Zener transitions with spin flipping in chiral structures
We study Landau–Zener transitions with the spin flipping of electron states in donor–chiral bridge–acceptor structures due to electron spin coupling with the strain tensor induced by the anisotropic phonon field of the chiral bridge molecule, where the transition rates near conical intersections between two potential energy surfaces for the right-handed and left-handed bridge structures are calculated. We find that the flipping rates sensitively depend on the handedness of the bridge molecules and could be significantly enhanced with the increasing of phonon wave vectors, displaying the crucial rules of the electron–phonon coupling for the spin selectivity effect in chiral structures. These results not only shed light on the microscopic mechanisms of chirality–induced spin selectivity but also enlighten the role of spin selectivity in electron transfer in chemical and biological systems.
Analysis of the efficacy of splenic artery superselective embolization in cirrhosis with hepatocellular carcinoma
Background To explore the safety and effectiveness of partial splenic embolization (PSE) in patients with hypersplenism and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) and to compare the efficacy of superselective and non-superselective embolization of splenic artery branches. Procedure We retrospectively analyzed 64 patients with HCC who underwent PSE between August 2020 and December 2022. The patients were categorized into two groups based on different treatment plans: Group A (n=33) underwent superselective embolization and Group B (n=31) underwent non-superselective embolization of the splenic artery branches. The safety and effectiveness of the two methods were evaluated along with changes in peripheral blood cells [mainly white blood cells (WBC) and red blood cells (RBC)] and platelet (PLT) counts at different time points after PSE. Postoperative adverse events were also compared between the two groups, Results The technical success rate was 100% for both procedures. The PLT and WBC counts of the two groups significantly increased one week after PSE (P<0.05), and there was no statistically significant difference in the RBC count changes. At follow-up (4, 16, and 24 weeks), the PLT and WBC counts remained consistent at levels which were significantly different from those before PSE (P<0.05). However, the RBC counts were not significantly different (P>0.05). An independent sample t-test was used to compare the differences in blood counts between the two groups at the same time point. There were no statistically significant differences in PLT, WBC, and RBC counts between Group A and Group B at any time point after PSE (P>0.05). The incidence of fever and pain in Group B was significantly higher than that in Group A (P<0.05), Conclusion Partial splenic artery embolization is a safe and effective treatment option for hypersplenism. Both splenic artery branch superselective and non-superselective embolization strategies demonstrated comparable outcomes. However, superselective embolization exhibited a lower incidence of postprocedural complications than non-superselective embolization.
Transcriptome analysis reveals a de novo DNA element that may interact with chromatin-associated proteins in Plasmodium berghei during erythrocytic development
Abstract The life cycle of Plasmodium parasites involves intricate, multistage processes that are tightly regulated by stage-specific transcription factors. These factors bind to regulatory regions within gene promoters, enabling the precise expression of genes required for each developmental stage. Despite the importance of these transcriptional mechanisms, our understanding remains limited, particularly in the rodent model organism P. berghei. To address this, we conducted a genome-wide analysis of RNA-Seq data from different developmental stages of P. berghei by initially integrating data from human malaria parasites P. falciparum and P. vivax. We identified unique transcriptional signatures across Plasmodium species. Our analysis of P. berghei revealed stage-specific gene sets clustered by expression profiles and predicted regulatory motifs involved in their control. We interpreted these motifs using known binding sites for eukaryotic transcription factors including ApiAP2 proteins. Additionally, we expanded the annotation of the AGGTAA motif which resembles a de novo motif linked to erythrocytic development in P. falciparum, and identified its potential interacting proteins including members of the PfMORC and GCN5 complexes. This study enhances our understanding of gene regulation in P. berghei and provides new insights into the transcriptional dynamics underlying Plasmodium development.
Entropic forces in rotaxane-based daisy chains: Toward tunable nanomechanical systems
Mechanically interlocked polymers and molecules exhibit unique topological, physical, and chemical properties, making them highly promising for applications in molecular machines, molecular switches, artificial muscles, nano-actuators, nano-sensors, and biomedical technologies. While significant progress has been made in their synthesis and practical implementation, theoretical studies remain underexplored. In this work, we examine the role of entropic forces in daisy chain structures incorporating rotaxanes, with the ultimate goal of characterizing entropic nano-springs for use in nanomechanics and nanotechnology. Potential applications include artificial cytoskeletons, synthetic cells, and nano-mechanical logic gates.
Sleep behaviors and metabolic-associated fatty liver disease
Objective This study aimed to comprehensively evaluate the association between various sleep behaviors and the risk of metabolic-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD), particularly self-reported snoring. Methods Multivariate logistic regression was used to explore independent factors associated with MAFLD. ROC curve and decision curve analyses were used to analyze and compare the different indicators. Results A total of 3708 patients were enrolled, and 41.4% of them had MAFLD. According per multivariate logistic regression analysis, self-reported snoring was an independent predictor of MAFLD (p < 0.001), particularly the occasional and frequent snoring groups [OR (95% CI): 1.44 (1.12–1.87), 1.48 (1.15–1.91), p < 0.001]. In addition, the liver function levels and incidence rates of metabolic parameters were independently associated with the severity of self-reported snoring (all p < 0.05). Subgroup analyses suggested that the frequency of snoring was independently related to the risk of MAFLD in young and middle-aged patients (both p < 0.05), and was no longer associated with any frequency of self-reported snoring in the subgroup older than 60 years (p = 0.400). In both female and male subgroup, subjects who snored frequently had a higher odds risk of MAFLD than those who did not (both p < 0.05). The area under the ROC curve for snoring was 0.638, which was superior to that of the other indicators for MAFLD prediction (all p < 0.001). Meanwhile, decision curve analysis showed that snoring had a better clinical net benefit compared to other biomarkers, with a threshold probability (Pt) of approximately 0.3–0.6. Conclusion Self-reported snoring was an independent risk factor for MAFLD in young and middle-aged subjects with a moderate predictive value. Therefore, intense monitoring and evaluation of MAFLD in these patients is necessary.
Leveraging deep learning and graph analysis for enhanced course recommendations in online education
Hydrogen-bonding interaction between the T1 state of 2-nitrofluorene and alcoholic molecules: Enhancing the oxidative reactivity of the triplet state
2-Nitrofluorene (2-NF) is one of the most abundant nitro polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (NPAHs), airborne pollutants, and is known for their enhanced toxicity and potential health impacts. This study investigates the reactivity of the T1 state of 2-nitrofluorene, denoted as 2-3NF, toward proton, electron, and hydrogen donors in both polar aprotic and protic solvents, using nanosecond transient absorption and resonance Raman spectroscopies. For the first time, we characterize 2-3NF in various solvents using these techniques. Our results reveal an acid–base equilibrium constant pKa of 1.8 for 2-3NF, indicating much stronger basicity compared to other NPAHs in their T1 state. Resonance Raman and TA spectroscopic analyses confirm the presence of hydrogen-bond interaction between the 2-3NF and alcohol solvent molecules. This interaction significantly enhances the reduction potential of 2-3NF and influences its photoreduction reactivity with substrates such as 1,4-cyclohexadiene and 1-naphthol, where the electron transfer coupled with proton transfer is the primary mechanism. These results provide valuable insight into the role hydrogen bonds play in modulating the reduction reactivity and oxidation potential of NPAHs in their excited states. Furthermore, this study highlights the complex influence of solvent interactions on photochemical processes, emphasizing the importance of incorporating these effects in atmospheric chemistry studies.
Resolution of the High versus Low debate for Old and Middle Kingdom Egypt
The unrivaled millennia-long historical chronology of ancient Egypt forms the backbone for archaeological synchronization across the entire Eastern Mediterranean region c. 3000-1000 BCE. However, for more than a century, scholars have wrangled over the correct calendrical positioning of this record, with older scenarios being referred to as ‘High’, and younger ones, ‘Low’ chronologies. Offsets between the two can be as great as a century, substantially confusing connections with other civilizations of the time. Here, we settle this debate for two major periods of political unity in ancient Egypt, the Old Kingdom (the Pyramid Age), and the Middle Kingdom. We introduce 48 high-precision radiocarbon dates obtained through rare access to museum collections as well as freshly excavated samples. By combining these new results with legacy radiocarbon data and with text records for reign lengths of kings within a Bayesian statistical framework, we show that the Low Chronology is no longer empirically supported for the Old and Middle Kingdoms, and resolve a long-standing historical schism.
Metabolomic reprogramming of the tumor microenvironment by dual arginase inhibitor OATD-02 boosts anticancer immunity
InCl3-modified In2O3/CdS double electron transport layers for high-performance Sb2(S, Se)3 solar cell
Antimony selenosulfide [Sb2(S, Se)3] solar cells have attracted increasing attention because of their abundant reserves and excellent photoelectric properties. In the case of the Sb2(S, Se)3 solar cell featuring a superstrate structure of indium tin oxide/cadmium sulfide (CdS)/Sb2(S, Se)3/spiro-OMeTAD/Au, the device performance was limited by the poor heterojunction interfaces, especially the poor interface of the P–N heterojunction. In this study, InCl3-modified In2O3 was used to tailor the quality of the P–N heterojunction. The quality of the CdS deposited on InCl3-modified In2O3 was significantly improved. In addition, the conduction band offset between P–N junctions is tailored, which is helpful for carrier transport. As Sb2(S, Se)3 was deposited on such a modified electron transport layer by InCl3-modified In2O3, the (hkl, l = 1) preferred orientation of the Sb2(S, Se)3 film increased greatly, and the built-in voltage of the Sb2(S, Se)3 solar cell tailored by InCl3-modified In2O3 was enlarged, which is beneficial for carrier transport. Finally, the InCl3-modified In2O3-assisted CdS double electron transport layers achieved a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 7.44% for Sb2(S, Se)3 solar cells via the vapor transport deposition method. This work provides a valuable reference for interface modifications and further boosts the efficiency of Sb2(S, Se)3 solar cells.
Effects of chemical exposures and diet on birth outcomes in a New York City pregnancy cohort: Mediation through favorable fetal growth conditions
Background Fetal growth is shaped by a complex interplay of parental traits, environmental exposures, nutritional intake, and genetic predispositions. In epidemiological research, birth weight is widely used as a proxy of impaired or favorable fetal growth; but it fails to provide a comprehensive measure, particularly if used alone. Methods In a cohort of 538 mother-fetal pairs from the New York University Children’s Health and Environment Study (NYU CHES), we utilized multiple linear regression and structural equation modeling (SEM) to assess the influence of various determinants–maternal characteristics, chemical exposures, and dietary factors–on fetal growth. To comprehensively evaluate fetal growth, we employed the concept of latent variable Favorable Fetal Growth Conditions (FFGC), together with three observed outcomes: birth weight, birth length, and gestational age. Results Maternal characteristics such as height, BMI, race/ethnicity, and maternal alcohol intake were significantly associated with birth weight, birth length, and gestational age in both the linear regression and with FFGC in the SEM. However, SEM additionally revealed significant relationships that were not detected by linear regression. Specifically, di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) latent factor showed a negative association with the FFGC (β=-0.16, 95% confidence interval (CI)=-0.27, -0.04). The diet latent variable positively impacted FFGC (β=0.15, 95% CI=0.04, 0.25), whereas total calorie intake exhibited a negative effect (β=-0.13, 95% CI=-0.22, -0.05). Conclusion The SEM provided a thorough understanding of the multifaceted pathways through which multiple factors of chemical mixtures, diet intakes, and maternal characteristics affected fetal development, uncovering nuanced associations that were not apparent in direct effects models. Our findings highlight the intricate interplay of maternal characteristics, chemical exposures, and dietary factors in shaping fetal growth.
Genetic variability, correlation and path coefficient analysis of phenotypic traits and genetic diversity of Aman rice landraces (Oryza sativa L.)
The changing impact of the active job openings-to-applicants ratio (AJOAR) on ambulance dispatches during deflation: A longitudinal ecological study
Background Frequent ambulance dispatches is a common challenge in developed countries. Several factors have been identified as contributing to increase in dispatches, but no stipulation has explained the particular shift observed in Japan since 1995. This study examined ambulance dispatches in view of changes in a macroeconomic indicator. Methods This longitudinal ecological study covered all annual ambulance dispatch incidents in Japan between 1980 and 2021 (42 years). The regression model comprised the active job openings-to-applicants ratio during deflation, the active job openings-to-applicants ratio during inflation, aging population trend, and mean ambient temperature, with the Japanese total population as an offset variable. Results There were a total of 177,042,244 ambulance dispatches during the study period. The active job openings-to-applicants ratio during deflation showed statistical significance in the regression analysis (generalized estimation equations estimate: 0.165, 95% confidence interval: 0.087 to 0.243) whereas the active job openings-to-applicants ratio during inflation did not (0.019, −0.021 to 0.059). Conclusion The active job openings-to-applicants ratio during deflationary periods was associated with increased ambulance dispatches.
Prompt gamma-ray imaging in realistic background conditions of a boron neutron capture therapy facility
Association between virtual visits and health outcomes of people living with HIV: A cross-sectional study
Background Virtual care has been integrated as a modality of care in Ontario, yet its effectiveness for people living with HIV remains largely unexplored. Objectives We aimed to determine the association of visit modality (virtual, in-person, or both) on adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), viral load, and quality of life (QoL) in people living with HIV in Ontario, Canada. Methods We conducted a cross-sectional study using data from the 2022 Ontario HIV Treatment Network Cohort Study (OCS), collected during the COVID-19 pandemic when virtual visits were first introduced . Participants were grouped into three categories based on the mode of care: virtual, in-person, or a combination of both. Data were collected through self-reported questionnaires and medical records, with viral load data linked to Public Health Ontario Laboratories (PHOL). Logistic regression was used to examine the outcomes of optimal ART adherence and viral load suppression, and linear regression was used for quality of life (mental and physical) outcomes. Results In 2022, 1930 participants accessed HIV care in the OCS. Among them, 19.0% received virtual care, 45.6% received in-person care, and 34.3% received care through virtual and in-person modalities. The median age of the participants was 55 years (IQR: 45–62). In the multivariable logistic regression model, virtual care was associated with an increased likelihood of optimal adherence to antiretroviral therapy (Adjusted Odds Ratio (AOR) 1.30, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.00, 1.70) and an increased likelihood of achieving viral load suppression (AOR 1.67, 95% CI:1.03, 2.63). Moreover, combined virtual and in-person care is associated with an improved mental quality of life compared to in-person care (Adjusted Mean difference (MD) - 0.960, 95% CI: 0.05, 1.87). Conclusion This study suggests virtual care is positively associated with adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART) and viral suppression within this context. However, future research is necessary to establish causality and to assess the long-term effects of virtual care.
Precision of post-operative localization of deep brain stimulation electrodes
Abstract Tools for post-operative localization of deep brain stimulation (DBS) electrodes may be of major benefit in the evaluation of the stimulation area. However, little is known about their precision. This study compares 3 different software packages used for DBS electrode localization. T1-weighted MRI images before and after the implantation of the electrodes into the subthalamic nucleus for DBS in 105 Parkinson’s disease patients were processed using the pipelines implemented in Lead-DBS, SureTune4, and Brainlab. Euclidean distance between active contacts determined by individual software packages and in repeated processing by the same and by a different operator was calculated. Furthermore, Dice coefficient for overlap of volume of tissue activated (VTA) was determined for Lead-DBS. Medians of Euclidean distances between estimated active contact locations in inter-software package comparison ranged between 1.5 mm and 2 mm. Euclidean distances in within-software package intra- and inter-rater assessments were 0.6–1 mm and 1–1.7 mm, respectively. Median intra- and inter-rater Dice coefficients for VTAs were 0.78 and 0.75, respectively. Since the median distances are close to the size of the target nucleus, any clinical use should be preceded by careful review of the outputs.